The implementation of the second stage of the Graded Response Action Plan continues unabated across the national capital.
New India“>Delhi:
A pervasive and dense layer of smog blanketed Delhi along with neighboring regions including Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram, and Faridabad early on Wednesday morning, further complicating the air quality crisis.
The air quality index (AQI) in Delhi surged into the ‘Severe’ category, exceeding the critical threshold of 400, while areas such as Gurugram, Noida, and Ghaziabad found themselves categorized as ‘Poor’ due to their elevated AQI levels. In contrast, Faridabad managed to stay within the ‘Moderate’ range, recording an AQI of 188.
With visibility severely compromised, the AQI’s escalation into the ‘Severe’ bracket marked a distressing shift after remaining within the ‘Very Poor’ category for a continuous span of two weeks in the capital.
VIDEO | Dense #smog cover in parts of Delhi. Visuals from Akshardham area.#DelhiWeather#DelhiPollution
(Full video available on PTI Videos – https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/nTRkp0W95m
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) November 13, 2024
The ongoing execution of the second stage of the Graded Response Action Plan is crucial, encompassing efforts such as mechanical street cleaning and systematic water sprinkling on designated highways, alongside rigorous dust management protocols at construction and demolition sites to mitigate pollution levels.
As the air quality crisis deepens across the Indo-Gangetic Plains, it raises serious environmental concerns, with cities in Bihar, Haryana, and Chandigarh contrasting starkly against cleaner locations in the nation; these regions featured prominently among the top 10 most polluted areas in the country on the same day.
#WATCH | Delhi continues to be covered in a blanket of smog in the mornings as the air quality in the city remains in ‘Very Poor’ category as per Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
(Visuals from Azadpur Mandi) pic.twitter.com/h9CR1CtRZO
— ANI (@ANI) November 13, 2024
Meanwhile, the alarming air quality conditions extend across borders into Pakistan, where the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has raised grave concerns regarding the health risks posed by deteriorating air quality to an estimated 11 million children residing in Pakistan’s eastern Punjab province.
An AQI between zero and 50 is classified as ‘good’; levels from 51 to 100 are deemed ‘satisfactory’; from 101 to 200 are rated ‘moderate’; 201 to 300 are termed ‘poor’; 301 to 400 fall into the ‘very poor’ category; 401 to 450 are labeled as ‘severe’; and anything above 450 is categorized as ‘severe plus.’
**Interview with Dr. Rohan Mehta, Environmental Policy Expert**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Mehta. We’re witnessing a significant escalation in Delhi’s air quality crisis, with the AQI hitting severe levels. Can you explain what this means for residents?
**Dr. Mehta:** Absolutely. When the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaches the ‘Severe’ category, it indicates extremely unhealthy air quality. This means that even healthy individuals might start experiencing adverse effects, while those with pre-existing health conditions can suffer serious repercussions. The smog not only affects breathing but can also lead to long-term respiratory diseases.
**Editor:** The implementation of the second stage of the Graded Response Action Plan is ongoing. How effective do you believe these measures will be in combating this crisis?
**Dr. Mehta:** The second stage of the Graded Response Action Plan includes essential actions like mechanical street cleaning and water sprinkling, which are important for mitigating dust and other particulate matter that contribute to poor air quality. However, the effectiveness largely depends on the thorough execution of these measures and public compliance. It’s a short-term solution to what is a long-term problem, requiring sustainable policies and action on pollution sources.
**Editor:** We’ve seen a stark contrast in air quality across Delhi and the surrounding regions, with areas such as Gurugram and Noida classified as ‘Poor’ but Faridabad remains in the ‘Moderate’ range. What factors could explain these differences?
**Dr. Mehta:** Geographic factors play a significant role. Areas with more greenery and effective urban planning, like Faridabad, can buffer some pollution. Meanwhile, densely populated areas like Gurugram and Noida may experience more severe effects due to vehicular emissions, industrial activity, and construction dust. Local meteorological conditions, such as wind patterns, can also lead to varying pollution concentrations across regions.
**Editor:** As the situation seems to worsen, what advice would you give to residents on how to protect themselves and their families during this period of high air pollution?
**Dr. Mehta:** I advise residents to limit outdoor activities, especially during peak pollution hours, and use air purifiers indoors. Wearing masks designed for air pollution can also help when going outside. Staying informed about the real-time AQI and supporting local efforts to reduce emissions—like using public transportation or carpooling—can make a difference as well.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Mehta, for your insights. It’s a critical time for Delhi, and your expertise sheds light on the urgency of addressing air quality concerns.
**Dr. Mehta:** Thank you for having me. It’s vital that we all stay informed and take measures to protect our health and the environment.
